The Japan national team recorded its third victory in the first tournament of the Men's Volleyball Nations League after defeating host China 3:1 (25:23, 25:22, 20:25, 25:21) in a match on the fourth day of the tournament in Linyi, China.

With this success, the Japanese temporarily topped the tournament standings with three victories, surpassing the other teams before the remaining five matches of the day were played.
The match was under the control of the Asian team in the first two sets. Japan demonstrated greater stability in attack and managed to take the first set 25:23, and then increased its lead after a 25:22 win in the second set.
The Chinese reacted excellently in the third set and reduced their deficit after a 25:20 win, but in the fourth set, the Japanese once again imposed their rhythm and closed out the match 25:21.
Statistics also showed the superiority of the winners. Japan scored 57 points from attack against 47 for China, added 5 aces against 4, and finished with a total of 95 points against 91 for the hosts. China had a minimal advantage in blocking – 11 against 10 successful blocks.
In defense, the Japanese recorded 76 digs against 57 for their opponent, and in reception, they were the more stable team – 80 successful receptions against 74 for China. Japan's setters also had a slight advantage with 117 successful sets against 108.
The top scorer for the winners was Ran Takahashi with 21 points. Yuki Ishikawa added 12 points. For China, the best performer was Zhang Z.J. with 18 points, and Wang B. finished with 15.
Japan, which holds the sixth place in the FIVB ranking, slightly increased its total to 309.43 points and remains directly ahead of France, which is seventh with 309.16 points.

photo:volleyballworld.com